Mr. Robbins is Chairman of the Board and CEO of the Company and the Bank, allowing him to approach his director role from a unique perspective. He joined Valley in 1996 as part of the Bank s Management Associate Program and has grown along with the Company. From college student to thought leader, his nearly 30-year career at Valley has seen him through several key positions where his invaluable contributions have helped shape Valley s growth and success. As CEO, Mr. Robbins has led Valley into the future while keeping true to the Company s roots as a local bank. In an ever-evolving digital and mobile world, Mr. Robbins and the rest of Valley s leadership team strive to create a stronger, faster, more efficient and more responsive organization. His vision for success is building a purpose-driven organization which includes embracing innovation, being customer-centric, promoting social responsibility and empowering Valley s associates. Mr. Robbins earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Economics from Susquehanna University, his Master of Business Administration in Finance from Pace University and is a graduate of Stonier Graduate School of Banking. He is a Certified Public Accountant ( CPA ) (inactive) in New Jersey and is a member of both the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Mr. Robbins serves on the board of directors of the Mid-Size Bank Coalition of America, the New Jersey Bankers Association ( NJBA ), the New York Bankers Association and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York ( FHLBNY ). He also serves on the board of directors of the Jewish Vocational Service of MetroWest New Jersey and is on the Morris Habitat for Humanity Leadership Council. Mr. Robbins takes great pride in community outreach and is an active supporter of several other philanthropic organizations in his community as well.